Nature Center events

Seasonal changes

AT FARMINGTON BAY, every day is different. The colors are always changing and the birds are always on the move. Here's a peek at some seasonal highlights:

February is Bald Eagle month. During the first two weeks of February, we can get as many as 400 Bald Eagles congregate at Farmington Bay WMA near the Great Salt Lake Nature Center.

March brings the massive Tundra Swan migration. Up to 10,000 of these beautiful birds stage at Farmington Bay on their way back north to the Arctic Circle. March is also the beginning of nesting season. Observe the Great Blue Herons as they begin to rebuild their nests atop the breeding colony at the Nature Center.

April–June is peak migration time. Thousands of shorebirds pass through the wetlands of Farmington Bay. Nearly 60 species stay on site to nest during the summer. This is the best time of year to see great diversity of birds.

July–August is a feeding frenzy. Species like Wilson's Phalarope are bulking up in preparation for their long migrations. Young birds like ducklings, geese and great blue heron chicks hang out in their nests waiting for their parents to return with fish to drop into their gaping bills.

September–October marks the departure of many shorebirds and the start of waterfowl migration. Upward of 200,000 ducks flock to the area's wetlands. Many of these ducks undergo an annual molt of their feathers making their identification tricky.

November–January things quiet down. Fewer species can be seen, but this is the best time of year to spot raptors, especially Northern Harriers and American Kestrels.

Annual events

Bald eagle

Bald Eagle Day

During the month of February, you can see as many as 400 bald eagles on site. Bald Eagle Day is usually held the second Saturday in February and is considered the center's biggest event of the year. Volunteers with spotting scopes are stationed along Farmington Bay's main dike road so you can get a great view of the eagles. Check the DWR wildlife calendar for specific dates and times.

Tundra swans

Tundra Swan Day

During the month of March, as many as 10,000 tundra swans pass through Farmington Bay WMA on their annual migration to their arctic breeding grounds. They come to rest and feed on sego pondweed tubers, which they pull from the large ponds of Farmington Bay WMA. The annual Tundra Swan Day is usually held the second Saturday in March. Volunteers are stationed along our dike roads with spotting scopes to help you get a better look at these beautiful birds. Check the DWR wildlife calendar for specific dates and times.